By Innocent Anaba

The newly appointed Director of Public Prosecutions of the Federation, DPPF, Mr. Oyedepo Rotimi, SAN, has that he was committed to strengthening public prosecution in Nigeria to meet the country’s present national challenges and the demands of the future.

He also expressed gratitude to President Bola Tinubu and the Attorney-General of the Federation, while pledging to strengthen Nigeria’s public prosecution system through professionalism, independence, and strict adherence to the rule of law.

In a statement, following his appointment, Rotimi described the outpouring of goodwill, prayers, and congratulatory messages as humbling, noting that the role represents a solemn national responsibility rather than a personal achievement.

Rotimi specifically thanked President Tinubu, for the confidence reposed in him, as well as the Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Prince Lateef Fagbemi, SAN, for finding him worthy of the appointment.

“I receive this trust with humility and a full appreciation of the responsibility it entails,” he said, acknowledging the support he has received over the years from his mentors, colleagues at the Bar and on the Bench, law enforcement agencies, civil society organisations, friends, and family, describing their encouragement as instrumental to his professional journey.

According to Rotimi, his appointment comes at a critical time for the country’s criminal justice system and must be approached with a renewed sense of duty and reform-minded leadership.

“This appointment is a solemn call to service. I am firmly committed to strengthening public prosecution in Nigeria to meet our present national challenges and the demands of the future.”

He outlined key priorities for his tenure to include prosecutorial independence, professionalism, efficiency, and strict compliance with the Constitution and the rule of law, stressing that the credibility of the justice system depends largely on the integrity of prosecutorial decisions.

“Prosecutorial decisions under my leadership will be guided solely by law, evidence, and the public interest, anchored on fairness, diligence, and integrity,” he said.

He expressed optimism about collaboration across institutions, noting that effective public prosecution requires constructive engagement with stakeholders within and outside government.

“I look forward to constructive engagement and cooperation as we work together to build a credible, formidable, and future-ready public prosecution system for our nation,” Rotimi added.